American Legion project honors local heroes

On Monday, the American Legion Post Unit No. 48, presented a program to commemorate its Field of Heroes as an end to the fundraiser for the local legion post.

Bill Shrum, reporter2@stuttgartdailyleader.com

Everyone has a hero, whether it is a veteran of a war or a person that is looked up to by a family member or community.

On Monday, the American Legion Post Unit No. 48, presented a program to commemorate its Field of Heroes as an end to the fundraiser for the local legion post.

"We wanted to have it outside with the flags but we just couldn't because of the mud," Mary Beth Farrester, president of the American Legion Auxiliary Post No. 48, said.

Farrester said during the ceremony that flags commemorating the heroes began on Sept. 11 with a formal program at the post with post members, auxiliary members and interested citizens present.

"We wanted to do this to honor veterans and raise money for the local post," Farrester said.

There were 49 flags purchased and a total of 71 heroes or veterans were recognized with names added to the flags for recognition in a ceremony, Farrester said.

"I have loved it from the beginning," Marianne Maynard, the mayor of Stuttgart, said. "There is nothing better than seeing those flags waving on Park Avenue."

Maynard said the flags also honored local law enforcement officers and firefighters who put their lives in danger every day.

"We enjoyed doing this for the veterans at the legion post and we will be doing this as an annual event," Farrester said. "We also have had many compliments on the flags."

Norma Strabala, director of Stuttgart RSVP, was recognized for her help on this project. Boy Scout Troop 260 of Stuttgart presented the colors and also helped with the distribution of the flags to family members who honored their heroes.